Jonckholt Castle Ruins

Jonckholt Castle is an unfinished yard of a medieval castle near Hoelbeek. The plans were drawn up, but only the canals, ramparts and foundations were realized.

Jonckholt is considered an unfinished military fortress under construction, hastily erected at the beginning of the Eighty Years' War. It was located on the shortest route between the Maas Valley and the Demer Valley, the fastest and easiest way to the Duchy of Brabant. It was built at this strategic location to discourage William of Orange's troops from advancing along this road. According to historical sources, the client was a branch of the de Merode family, which was active in the so-called Secret Council, which could be regarded as the government in the Spanish Netherlands at the time.